Whether volunteering at a student-run medical clinic, serving as mentors for underserved youths or making sure that the homeless don't go hungry, UC Davis students are community leaders. Two outstanding students will be recognized at their upcoming commencement ceremonies.

"UC Davis has a rich tradition of supporting the academic pursuits of our students, as well as their significant involvement in service and leadership activities," said Janet Gong, senior associate vice chancellor of student affairs.

The Mary Jeanne Gilhooly and V. Glenn Winslow Jr. awards honor the female and male graduates believed to be the most outstanding in the areas of leadership, scholarship, integrity and service in the campus community. Recipients are honored with a plaque, $500 and a commemorative gift.

Amira Zaid, a Davis native majoring in genetics, will receive the Gilhooly Award at the College of Biological Sciences commencement at 2 p.m. on June 12 in the ARC Pavilion. Zaid volunteered at Clinica Tepati, a free health clinic, throughout her years at UC Davis.

After her mother's battle with breast cancer in 2001, Zaid said her life perspective changed and she realized that she wanted to be an advocate for others -- a desire that fueled many of her actions at UC Davis.

"I've been so privileged over the past four years to have taken part in so many incredible opportunities," said Zaid, who starts medical school at UC Davis this summer. "I know I'll always remember the inspirational faces and stories I've encountered along the way."

Ivan Carrillo of Elk Grove will receive the Winslow Award at the 2 p.m. ceremony of the College of Letters and Science on June 14 in the ARC Pavilion. He completed studies in March for a bachelor's degree in sociology and a double minor in history and Chicano studies. A transfer student to UC Davis, Carrillo established relationships with multiple communities on campus and was elected as a senator and later as president of the Associated Students of UC Davis.

"UC Davis provided me with life-changing experiences, including serving the campus and surrounding communities -- for all that I am grateful," Carrillo said.

As a participant in a program for Latino research in Washington, D.C., Carrillo served as an advocate for higher education, reviewed policy and met with members of Congress. He also mentored and tutored local youth. This coming fall, Carrillo will be a fellow in the Assembly Fellowship program in Sacramento.